Italian Fried Dumplings

Italian Fried Dumplings Recipe:

Italian fried dumplings, known as "panzerotti," are a beloved street food in Italy, especially in the southern regions like Puglia. These delicious morsels are similar to calzones but are typically smaller in size and fried to a crispy perfection. Here's a simple recipe for making authentic Italian fried dumplings at home:

Ingredients: - 1 pound pizza dough - 1/2 cup marinara sauce - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup chopped cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni - 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions: 1. Divide the pizza dough into equal-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. Roll out each ball into a circle, about 1/4 inch thick. 2. Place a spoonful of marinara sauce in the center of each dough circle, leaving some space around the edges. 3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped Italian sausage or pepperoni, and fresh basil over the sauce. 4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then press the edges together to seal. 6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). 7. Carefully place the dumplings in the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. 8. Remove the fried dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. 9. Serve the Italian fried dumplings hot with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

These Italian fried dumplings are perfect for serving as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. Enjoy the crispy exterior and the gooey, cheesy filling packed with savory Italian flavors. Buon appetito!